Search form

Heath Bell

The only thing smaller than this team’s payroll is its margin for error. With four postseason appearances in six years — an achievement 10 franchises have never equaled in their histories — owner Stu Sternberg, president Matt Silverman and executive VP Friedman have dexterously stayed within it.

New Year’s Day passed without the intensely rumored trade of David Price. As one of the most desirable players to hit the market in recent years — a Cy Young winner in his prime with two years remaining before free agency — he is certain to command an enormous return. Tampa Bay, however, has the luxury of patience.

<p>
It was the spending spree heard ’round the baseball world. In the span of a few dizzying December days, the newly recast Miami Marlins shelled out $191 million to sign three prominent free agents. After acting like a small-market franchise for virtually all of their two-decade existence, it’s a refreshing change to see the Marlins fall in line with such big-spending Miami brethren as the Heat and the Dolphins.</p>

Similar to the American League, this offseason has seen plenty of changes when it comes to the pitching staffs in the National League. Trades and free agent signings have not only impacted rosters, but have been made in hopes of shaking up the standings in Major League Baseball's Senior Circuit.